transmission problem
8.2
pretty badTypical Repair Cost:
$2,411.00
Average Mileage:
225,285 miles
Number of complaints:
57 complaints
Most common solutions:
- not sure (31 reports)
- new tranmission (14 reports)
- complete rebuild (11 reports)
- new solenoid, pistol in tranny broken (1 reports)
2008May 03
Explorer V8
- Automatic transmission
- 83,000 miles
2002 Ford Explorer 60k miles . Hard shifting ( clunk ) between shifts at different times was first problem. Our warranty had expired, but a Dealership Marysville Ford applied for a " Good Will" ( I think it was called ) through the Manufacturer FORD and Ford Factory paid for a huge chunk of the parts and labor. The Transmission had to be completely over-hauled. It was around the same price as all the rest on here approx 2500-3000 dollars. My out of pocket expenses were only $537.00. This made me happy.
Now I have a flashing O/D light with a trouble code of P0775 ( just 10k miles since total rebuild ) which states a Pressure B solenoid problem. This New Rebuild is still under warranty and I will take it in Monday morning to find out the extent of the problems.
I hope the Ford Factory helps you out on your total bill. Ford knows they have a huge problem with their transmissions during this years. They are helping out a little bit. : )
2008Apr 21
Explorer LX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 8,000,000 miles
I was driving home from work went to pull out of lot and truck would not take off I was almost hit from behind, o/d light started to blink. there was no sign of any problems before. I am every disappointed in the truck and all ford dealers this truck was a ripe off. I have replaced three rear hub assembly in the last three years, the hub broke on our way home from dropping my daughter off to camp , I thought we blow a tire and was driving on the rim the nose was so loud as if we were drive with no tires. the third time it broke I was on the freeway and almost side swiped a car, when driving with this part broke it's almost like the hole truck is moving side to side and you can control it. FORD U SUCK
2008Apr 24
Explorer LX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 130,000 miles
Ok! Ever since we bought our Ford Explorer BRAND new we have had the following problems. Within the first couple of months it would intermittently not start. We kept taking it in and they couldn't find anything. A year later we found out it was a bad battery. We have since replaced the battery ONCE EVERY YEAR. Then there were minor things, the wind shield wiper fluid does not come out of the back. In 2003 the drivers window motor burned out with the window stuck down in DECEMBER. We fixed that, now the back passenger motor is gone. There is a crack on the tail gate that seems like EVERYONE has as I have yet to see an Explorer that does not have that.
We have always preformed routine check ups, brakes, etc. The plastic piece on the driver seat broke off and the fabric has torn. I have NEVER experienced problems like this. This was our FIRST brand new car and cost us a FORTUNE for a new family starting out at 24 years old. NOW our OD light has started to blink. We have always had trouble shifting into reverse from time to time. So I looked up what the problem could possible be and found out it's the transmission. I have put so much time and money into fixing this car already. Not to mention the cost of gas to drive the car.
I have owned several used cars and my wife drives a 1996 Chevy Cavalier and we have NEVER had any of these problems. I want something to be done about this as Ford should be held accountable. What can I do? I will NEVER buy another Ford again.
2008Apr 18
Explorer XLT V8
- Automatic transmission
- 126,663 miles
WELL WHERE CAN I START? I WAS RAISED IN A CHEVY OR A MOPAR FAMILY AND IT WOULD BE A SIN TO OWN A FORD, BUT BEING THE REBEL I AM I NOW OWN TWO "SHOULD'VE LISTENED TO MY POPS" I HAVE A 2002 FORD EXPLORER THAT I HAVE POURED MY HEART AND SOUL INTO WITH FULL CUSTOMIZING FROM LOWERING KIT ,24" WHEELS, 8 TV'S,ECT I HAVE OWNED IT FOR 1 YEAR NOW AND HAVE REPLACED ALL 4 WINDOW REGULATORS , 2 WHEEL HUB ASSEMBLY'S,2 EGR SENSORS, A BROKEN GEAR SHIFT LINKAGE, AND NOW MY O/D LIGHT IS BLINKING AND TRANNY IS NOT SHIFTING PROPERLY. IRONICALLY MY DADS CHEVY HAS 200,000 MILES AND IS STILL RUNNING FINE...LOL I KNOW THE WILL NOT BE A RECALL ON THIS PARTICULAR ITEM SO I WILL NOT HOLD MY BREATH, BUT I TELL YOU ONE THING BEFORE I PLUNK 20,000 DOLLARS INTO CUSTOMIZING ANOTHER VEHICLE I WILL MAKE SURE IT ISNT A FORD I WONT PUT ANOTHER 4 DOLLARS INTO THIS VEHICLE. I PRAY EVERYDAY THAT SOMEONE WILL STEAL THE DAMN THING ALL THOUGH THEY WONT GET FAR LOL
2008Apr 17
Explorer XLT 3.2V6
- Automatic transmission
- 125,000 miles
First I noticed the trans slipping between 1st and 2nd or 2nd and 3rd. I'm not real sure. It acts like a manual trans does if you miss a gear. The rpms go way up but you don't grab a gear. then, if you let up on the accelerator it goes into gear and everything seems fine. As long as you maintain a speed of about 25mph or more it's OK. Only if you have to stop at a light or slow way down and start over does the trans slip between those 2 gears. Also very shortly after I experienced the problem (within 12 hours) I noticed the 'Service Engine' light on and the 'O/D' light blinking real fast.
Any ideas on what's wrong and possible cost?
2008Apr 12
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 67,500 miles
I bought my 2002 Ford Explorer XLT brand new and have had no problems until now. It seems I'm not the only one with transmission problems. The O/D light is blinking and gears are hesitating. I brought this to my mechanic and he hooked it up to his computer. From what codes came up, he basically said that I had to go a transmission shop. When I heard this I almost threw up. I have 67,500 miles on my truck and have taken very good care of it. Everyone with this problem needs to put in a complaint with Ford Motor company so that they get the point that the 2002 Explorer has major transmission problems.
2008Apr 14
Explorer XLT 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 94,350 miles
I purchased a 2002 Ford Explorer XLT 2.5 yrs ago and never had a problem until a local Ford dealership serviced the transmission. I had the tranny serviced in late November 07. The day after I got it back I noticed the power steering was not working properly and returned it to the dealership. They found air in the lines and was nice enough to flush it for free. A month later the rear heating & air went out, not a cheap fix so I have waited. Now the OD light is flashing only to discover that it could be a variety of things going wrong in the tranny. I think Ford has jinxed my vehicle since they touched it last and now I am stuck with basically a piece of junk. We would all be better off letting local garages work on our vehicles versus Ford, BEWARE!
2007Apr 16
Explorer XLT
- Automatic transmission
- 88,000 miles
1 yr ago I was told that my tranny needed rebuilding. O/D Off light was flashing, truck would not go, made god awful grinding noise. After paying $432 to Firestone, they said they don't do transmissions and had it towed to Aamco. $3500 more later, I was told I was good to go. Now here we are, 1 year to the day and same problem. Except that AAmoc says I am about 1600 miles over the warranty. Imagine that! Well now they are saying that while they can fix it they can't guarantee that it won't happen again, because last time they put an "external cooling system" on the tranny but it's running hot. Wouldn't I have noticed a burnt smell or something? Car just one day, would not go..and Ford! HA!!!!!!!!!!!! Customer Service is not a part of the company Mission! Cuz this is one customer who got NO service from them. I will never buy another Ford product again and I have been a loyal customer all my adult life!
2006Jan 15
Explorer XLT 4.6L
- Automatic transmission
- 111,847 miles
hey everyone who's having the sam problem as me ford truck are good but there tranny sucks i had two rebuild my tranny twice myself in my garage and have a friend at ford who told ford basically doesn't give ashit about the problems we all are having with our tranny that fucking o.d light keeps flashing my face at first i thought i blew my od and had to run on 4 gears instead of 5 so i opened my tranny and saw od was good change solenoids tranny ran ok then od light was flashing again opened tranny again change everything in it thought i corrected the problem no 6 months later problem came back don't know what to do anymore help us someone talk to ford and have them recall all of our tranny please
2008Mar 05
Explorer XLT
- Automatic transmission
- 91,000 miles
O/D light blinking on and off as well as service engine light. Car is gutless. Took it to a local shop and for 400.00 they put in a new "switch." That seemed to fix it for a couple weeks, but now it is back to the same old same old. So now what - take it to the dealership and have them take advantage of a girl? Or back to the local shop who might not know how to fix it? Am I just putting a band-aid on a bullet wound going to a local shop.
I had no idea this was such a huge problem with everyone...you would think Ford would have some integrity and do an automatic recall instead of giving people the line of, "well it sucks for you."
2007Mar 22
Explorer XLT 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 130,000 miles
Same problem here as everyone else. o/d light starts blinking and then service engine light comes on. Had the dealer fix it once, and cost me 1600. But next month, same problem comes along again. took it back and dealer said I have to get a new transmission or have my old one rebuilt what a bummer...
I don't even think they fixed my solenoid problem the first time.. cause the computer read out still says, pressure b solenoid.
I'm also into the class act lawsuit if you all are... a friend of mines at ford, says that the engineers are told to only design the transmission to last 100k miles.. Just when the warranty expires.
that really ticks me off.
2008Mar 06
Explorer Eddie Bauer
- Automatic transmission
- 120,000 miles
Well, here it is....The o/d light started flashing off and on. No other warning then that. I pulled off to the closest repair shop. They thought it might be just a solenoid block but after they pulled the pan there was metal all over the magnet. Bottom line looks like it gonna cost me over 2500.00 to fix. I have looked into the web a little and found this is really common. I say we take to fight to Ford with a class action suit. If the off shore engineers can make something work forever why cant the American automakers? I have only bought American cars to this point....But now I am really thinking about selling them all and buying imports.......What a sad freakin day......
2008Mar 03
Explorer XLT 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 104,000 miles
called ford they won't do a thing. My dealer won't do a thing. I'm hanging out to dry. NICE
2007Feb 01
Explorer 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 124,000 miles
Same crap here. O/D Off light screams and slipping at 55mph - 70mph and quick acceleration on freeway (not fun). Granted the there's 124K miles on the car. I called a tranny guy and he said it might be a solenoid or ECU or the tranny. He can't say till I bring it for him to check. Strangely he asked if I was some other person who called with the same year make and problem. It's obviously common as you all see. Thanks God I opted to purchase an extended extended warranty. My warranty expired last year and I got a call from them saying my warranty will expire and if I would like to purchase another warranty for an additional 100K miles. So I did. It covers the entire drive train, no electrical. Murphy's law......my passenger rear power window goes out. I will repost what the tranny dude says and how much it will cost. This is the last nail in the Coffin for Ford. I will never again buy a Fuk....I mean Ford.
2008Mar 01
Explorer XLT 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 80,000 miles
I have searched throughout the internet and couldn't believe I found so many issues exactly like mine. It amazes me that Ford gets away with this too. Also it happens far after the warranty. I knew when I bought this vehicle Ford was a mistake. I was talked into it by someone who ignorantly believes in that old old buy American crap. I'm sorry I'm American and I buy things all day. 85% of the things I buy all day are not American. So why would I buy something that costs so much and deal with it being substandard
I wish I would have bought the Toyota. I will get rid of it and go back to imports. can't go wrong. And you out there that believe in buy American. Look at your clothes food and almost everything else in your house.. Then you buy a piece of crap Ford and carry a flag on it.. Good Luck.....
2008Feb 04
Explorer XLS V6
- Automatic transmission
- 86,000 miles
My overdrive light is blinking ... doesn't kick on until I get on the highway...but then doesn't turn off until I turn off the car. Is there a fix to this prior to my transmission going bad cuz...it seems fine at this point and the light has been blinking for a couple of months. (It did it a couple of years ago, but only for a week).
2008Feb 29
Explorer XLT V8
- Automatic transmission
- 71,000 miles
dealer asks how much I like the Explorer as it will likely cost about $3000. He implies I may want to sell it NOW before the transmission dies. I am taking it to AAMCO for a diagnosis. Seems very low mileage for the transmission to go out. It has now happened twice.
2007Mar 30
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 68,000 miles
O/D light is blinking, then a whole new transmission is needed. This occurred very
shortly after the warranty expired. The mechanic we went to stated he has seen a lot of 2002 Ford Explorers with the same problem. We contacted Ford by phone and with written letters, and statements,.........nothing, absolutely nothing. I could not believe the number of people that had the same problem after researching this on the internet.
I know that Ford must have a computer in their office somewhere, so someone should be able realize the number of complaints posted regarding their transmission problems.
2008Mar 01
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 76,600 miles
Well My 2002 explorer was just fine Friday when I drove it got up sat morning and me and hubby was going to go goofing around since it was a warm day and got down the road and it wouldn't shift into second gear when it did it made a clunking sound and. I am totally peed off because I have had two rear ends put in this car. and new front end in this car, new window motors, the 4 wheel drive went out 3 months after i bought it. the sun roof leaked, My son called me one day because I had taken my husband truck to town and said the back plate from your car fell of and is lying in the drive way not once buy twice The rear window leaked and i had to get that fixed. so pretty much will never ever ever buy another ford explorer.
2008Feb 23
Explorer XLS 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 73,000 miles
Well folks, same problem O/D light started flashing, yesterday. 2 miles later the dreaded service engine soon light. The real kick in the pants was (honest to GOD) when I walked in the house and the wife stated"Hey babe the title for the truck can in the mail today, we finally own it". Hurt me to tell her that now we are going to have
put about 3500.00 into our free and clear piece of crap. then I looked on line and
found this site and WOW, this is crazy, At some point we as consumers have to be able find a way to hold these companies responsible, and make them feel the pain
in the pocket that we are feeling.
2008Jan 15
Explorer XLS V^
- Automatic transmission
- 91,000 miles
As most of you have already said, I will NEVER buy another ford vehicle. You can't honestly tell me that Ford doesn't know about the transmission problem on the 02 Explorer? I took my truck to Aamco last week and when I called to check on the status, they guy had to think about which explorer was mine because he had so many in the shop! You have got to be kidding me?! My OD light started blinking in mid January, but my wife had to continue to drive it since the warranty expired and we didn't have the money to fix it. A few weeks later while driving home from the airport with my KIDS and in-laws in the car, the stupid thing wouldn't shift correctly and starting shaking, etc. How embarrassing and unsafe with my kids in the car! I'm glad to be getting it fixed, but as soon as I get the chance, I'm going to get rid of this piece of crap. Ford, I hope you know how your customers feel. You will be out of business very soon.
2008Feb 20
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.6L
- Automatic transmission
- 60,000 miles
I have been a faithful Ford employee and customer for many years and this problem has
has topped it off for me.
My transmission o/d light started blinking and the transmission stopped working completely. I have taken really good care of this vehicle from day one. I have only
60,000 miles on it and it has been serviced by ford. After having my transmission flushed as recommended by ford , I started having this problem. I went to ford and
complained but no help was given. They said they go out all the time with no set mileage. I can guarantee myself and my family will never buy another ford ever.
We have bought over 15 vehicles in the last five years.
2008Jan 01
Explorer V8
- Automatic transmission
- 50,000 miles
I cannot believe I am back at this web site AGAIN. We had a 1993 Explorer that was very good to us--it's still running with 160,000 while our new 2002 explorer in is the shop AGAIN. (I was on this board b/c the back door cracked badly right underneath the windshield--shop est $600 to fix, that's not going to happen.)
Our air bag light and O/D light we're both blinking, so we brought it in thinking it was an electrical problem. NOPE.
We need to have our transmission rebuilt. The shop said it should be covered under our warranty--thank god my hubby is always insisting we buy warranties (when we bought the car with 20,000 I never thought we'd have a transmission problem with only 50000!)
If not, we're screwed.
2007Dec 01
Explorer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 98,000 miles
well,same problem as many ford owners check engine light is on O/D light
flashing reminding me what an idiot i was for buying a ford!!!!! mechanic said needs a new transmission of course.Nothing like paying 400.00 a month for a piece of shit and still owe 13,000 to pay off!!!SICK AND TIRED OF BEING SICK AND TIRED!
1920Dec 31
Explorer Sport 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 82,000 miles
This is my 2nd Explorer Sport. I still have a 1999 and all is well with it. My 2nd Explorer 2002 year and purchased new was doing well and now as others the transmission is failing. I have taken to Amocco Transmission and they say needs a complete rebuild.. What is going on with Ford???? I checked many web sites and see horror stories of this same problem s from all over. It is crazy to pay so much money for an American made car and have such problems today. Yes! I have owned foreign cars and have NO PROBLEMS! I try to buy American but this is not fair to us Americans to keep doing this with such problems that Ford will not admit and try to help out us who work hard and continue to buy their products. I even have an old MG that runs great and I can trust better than my Ford. I do not want to sound like a person who complains about all things but I must say I am complaining now and will continue to do so until a recall is done on the 2002 model. I have owned many Fords in the past but I must say if Ford stays silent on this problem then all my future cars will be foreign.
2008Feb 19
Explorer Limited V6
- Automatic transmission
- 64,000 miles
Few weeks ago, I have changed the transmission oil of my very well maintained Fords 2002. It costed me about $250. I did it because the Ford Engineers (which I do not know where are they getting their degree from), suggest to do it every 30K. I trusted more the Ford Engineers (BIG MISTAKE!!) than all my good mechanic friends, who advise me NOT TO change the oil, because it will cause more harm than good. Transmission is used to the old oil and putting new oil on it will cause shifting issues because the NEW oil is thinner. That was a prophecy...... Just two months after the oil change I need to replace the transmission. According to the FORD dealership, it will cost me about $3400 to do it. The moral of this story to me is: NEVER CHANGE THE TRANSMISSION OIL ON AN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION!!!!!!!
2007Jan 02
Explorer XLT V8
- Automatic transmission
- 93,000 miles
I had just bought my new - used - 2002 Ford Explorer! I was so excited to get out and drive. However a red flag should have gone off when I was told that the transmission was newly rebuilt just before I bought it. Anyway.... I bought the car and had it about 2 weeks when the Over Drive light came on and began flashing wildly while driving. This in turn messed with the transmission and it wouldn't shift right. The band in the middle of the tranny had broken. So the car went into the transmission shop for a week to have it rebuilt AGAIN. I get the car back. Two days later the O/D light comes on when you start the car if it is left in park. Now while I drive it the electric locks start locking and unlocking at the cars free will. The Door ajar light comes on and off along with the annoying beeping that comes with it. The transmission seems to be fine though. Some months down the road (about 3 months) the tranny starts shifting funny!!! Wow, who'd of thought. So I go to a different tranny shop! I didn't trust the same one. We replaced the main sensor so the lights would go off. Nope still on! Now it has been a year and 2 months and about $3000.00 later I have to spend $3000.00 to rebuild the transmission because the same *&^%$#@ piece broke! Go Figure!!! This is the most expensive annoyance I have ever had! ~Tonya
2008Jan 24
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 46,000 miles
I just wanted ot update my previous post, I called the Ford Northeast Regional Office and spoke to Mary. I asked that Ford buy my truck back from me, she said exactly "that is not going to happen." She told me to contact my dealer for financial assistance with the repair, I am trying to get a "goodwill repair" from them. Mary told me I had to deal with the dealer for this.
But the best is that when I first told her my problem she told me:
"Ford no longer has any obligation or responsibility for the truck because it is no longer under warranty."
I could not believe it. I said to her "you made a defective product and now you take no responsibility for it! As long as it lasts 3 years or 36K miles your happy!" But what does she care, plus I had an extended warranty, they would not do a thing. I also emailed my local TV station to see if they'd take up the case??? After I see what the service manager does for me I am writing to the corporate office.
I will let you all know what happens in case I have any luck but I'm not really that optimistic.
2008Feb 14
Explorer XLS V6
- Automatic transmission
- 83,000 miles
I am completely sickened to discover this issue is rampant. The O/
D light started blinking followed by the Service Engine Soon light popping on.
I took the Explorer to the repair shop and as soon as the technician asked about the problem and the year of the vehicle, his quick response was: "You're screwed!". He told me to look outside at the 2002 Explorer parked right next to mine...same problem. He proceeded to explain that this problem is well known by Ford and that the '02 Explorers were well known for this issue. I was shocked as I had never had an issue or repair in the 5 years that I've owned this vehicle. I'm awaiting the call back to find out what resolution the repair shop has to offer. I'll hold my breath until then....
2008Feb 05
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L V8
- Automatic transmission
- 111,000 miles
Ok.. so I just had to click a category just for this website but let me LIST what has gone wrong with this car.. I still had 14 day plates on it (it was used at 64,000 miles) the front wheel bearings went, so I had that fixed, then within that year I had the whole rear end fixed; new bearings again then just bad luck I had to replace the windshield 3 times b/c of rocks hitting it, then the Ford symbol fell off on the back that's just damn annoying so I had that fixed, then like other complaints about this car the friggen panel underneath the glass cracked so AGAIN I had to get that area fixed where the ford symbol fell off a few months prior haha. Then I had a little incident and backed into my father in-laws truck and had to pay 600 dollars to get the rear pounded out molded and painted and more symbols replaced that said eddie bauer haha and then the BIG ONE my overdrive/off light was flashing like crazy and the check transmission light came on so I took it in and my mechanic said to "dump it" because it was going to cost thousands to just start to fix it, so I was really taken by that because he shut the light off and said I had a decision to make whether to fix it or dump it.. Well, I dumped it and got a Jeep Commander, which is awesome, and I had someone tell me this exact story about someone else's 2002 explorer and it cost them $3500 to fix, Unbelievable is all I have to say. I pondered buying another Ford because I have had 2 prior but I just couldn't. I would recommend researching any vehicle before buying it. Hope this helps someone.
2008Jan 24
Explorer XLT
- Automatic transmission
- 46,000 miles
Oh My GOD! I can't believe, no, actually, I can believe - this is ridiculous. One day the car is fine and the next day my light when on - out of the blue. I took it into my Staten Island Ford DealerCrooks and the service write up guy immediately said "needs a transmission rebuilt" without even having a mechanic look at it! I freaked! Not even 50K miles and needs a transmission rebuilt?? I didn't believe him but reading what y'all have written I now know how he knew that - he's probably seen thousands of them! So I tell him I want someone to look at it and tell me exactly whats wrong with it so he says fine. They take my car and then tell me it's $190 diagnostic fee. I asked "What are you going to do for $190?" and he said "Hook it up to the computer." I made them go get my truck out and I took it to a mechanic. He said it needed new sensors but when he replaced the sensors the lights (both O/D Off & Service Engine Soon) wouldn't go out. He put the old ones back in and told me he couldn't fix it. So now I'm driving it around, locally only, and hoping it hold together. I want to trade it in - I'm going back to Honda and never leaving ! Oh, yeah, we had the extended warranty which expired on Dec 13th - one month earlier! They don't give a shit - pay up now!! I'm going onto all of those websites to lodge my complaint even though I feel like I am SCREWED.
2008Feb 01
Explorer 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 61,000 miles
Update on my FORD EXPLODER, well the good news is I didn't have to go in the hole 2500.00 for a new tranny. When I went to the transmission shop very I was told this was the third ford explorer that had been worked on in the SAME WEEK!!! MY husband and I took a test ride with the mechanic and he using the Mobis computer and found that 2nd and 5th gear were not shifting, possible problem with torque converter. Piston that needed to be repaired cost apprx 25.00 at most, but the solenoids which come in a bundle are costly thanks to Ford manufacturing you have to purchase the whole bundle and they cannot be disassembled, even if only one solenoid is bad. WELL 745.00 is better than 2500.00 for a rebuild.The mechanic told us that one of the other exploders that he worked on this week was brought to him on a second opinion after the owner visited a FORD dealership and was quoted a price of 3500.00 for a new tranny, my mechanic was able to fix the problem for 800.00. When I asked why isn't there a recall if there are so many similar problems and basically the consumer is screwed because the problem generally occurs after warranty expiration and they it is not considered a safety issue. Now how about that!!! Pretty sad. Thankyou Ford..
2008Feb 05
Explorer 4,0 V6
- Automatic transmission
- 68,000 miles
Adding myself to the list of rabid Ford owners with this problem. I guess I should consider myself lucky to have found a reliable service to fix it. The Ford dealership that does rebuild in this area is known to be league with the anti-christ (Lake Shore Ford). They told me at least $3500, no loner, and warranty is void. Terry's Transmission in Valparaiso if any local has this same problem is where to go. They are doing a complete rebuild with no Ford parts. Cost $2500 is the estimate. Truck is out of extended warranty by 3 months. I would gladly join and Class Action suit against Ford. Like all others here I will NEVER again buy a Ford.
2008Jan 31
Explorer 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 61,000 miles
Wow this is scary, to see of the similar symptoms that my 2002 exploder has with all these other victims. while driving to woik on the thruway o/d off light starts blinking. I pull over in the closest rest area pull out the manual at 5:50am on my way to work and it indicates get your car to dealer asap if light steadily flashes. which it did.. I turned the cart off and then when turned car back on light was gone I thought this is interesting proceeded to drive 17 miles to work noticing lose of power with pickup I was concerned felt as though vehicle was stuck in gear ( neutral). Here i am on the thruway I just prayed I make it to work. Upon leaving work at 5:30 pm car starts no probs. let it warm up no probs, back on thruway in RUSH HOUR traffic vehicle does not want to kick in at 30mph, hesitant and slow to react finally accelerates and o/d off light starts flashing as well as service engine soon. I by luck made it to my mechanic who is closed and next day I call him and tell him the symptoms puts it on modis diagnostic computer and reports back to me that code 775 and 735 represent TRANSMISSION trouble. This vehicle has 61,000 miles on it NEVER towed more than groceries and car seat in the back seat. Whats up with this... Now I'm being told buy transmission shop that I'll probably need rebuilt tranny,or just hope it is the transmission 5th speed solenoid problem. Quoted a price of 2500.00 for new tranny...Thats 2500.00 that I aint got for car repairs. If this is such a common problem how can FORD ignore the problem. We are responsible for bringing our cars in for recalls which I also had to do 2 months after I bought this vehicle brand new for a defect in the back hatch. Will update my results of my repairs to my car as of today cant drive my car til this problem is fixed. When my husband went on this site and we could not believe the complaints and I just had to voice mine because I am so frustrated. A very unsatisfied customer of FORD....Oh yeah one more thing has many one had a problem with the doors intermittently power locking whenever they want tooo... I cant even think of electrical problems and repairs but yes sometimes the doors power lock when I put it in drive and other times they don't. A true inconvenience especially with kids in the back. Thanks ford I 'll keep making my monthly payments and when its paid off in August I'll be making repair payments if I decide to keep this car. I do have a conscience and would never want someone to suffer the frustrations that has been brought on to my family. I need to have a safe reliable and dependable car for my family. I dont want to have to worry about being stranded on the thruway...
2008Jan 30
Explorer V8
- Automatic transmission
- 120,023 miles
While driving on highway I notice the OD light blinking. I don't believe the transmission was running bad. I was on a 2.5 hr trip one way. At the end I let the Explorer set for 1.5 hrs. The light never returned. I am getting ready to try it again, I feel like I am going to be stranded in a snow storm tonight. Oh well can't let this stop me.
2007Dec 07
Explorer Eddie Bauer V8
- Automatic transmission
- 81,000 miles
In December on a Friday evening after leaving work while sitting at a stop light a transmission warning light appeared on my dash. I immediately called at that moment from my cell phone to the local dealer and made an appointment to have the computer codes ran the following Monday. I dropped my car off and at that time requested the oil be changed as well. I specifically said "please call me with the codes, I do not want the pan dropped." I advised the service man I knew enough to be dangerous. I was hoping it was a sensor problem since the vehicle only had around 81k miles and planned on the dealership fixing it since it would have been minor. The service man called to tell me the codes were weird so they dropped the pan and took a look as a courtesy. When I reminded him I specifically requested that no one drop the pan he assured me there would be no charge. However the mechanic could see the overdrive band was broken. I asked them to put it back together as I would pick my vehicle up.
A. When a person knows the lingo "drop the pan" they might know something although they are female.
B. You cannot see the overdrive band on that particular model vehicle by dropping the pan.
C. My my ex-husband and I owned a transmission repair shop from 1975 thru 1983
D. I dropped a lot of pans when we were short handed at our shop. The pan seal although not the old cork design did not appear to have been broken or that the pan dropped when I took my car to my former competitor.
E. The problem was not the overdrive band which was intact. It was however due to a design flaw in the Ford servo's which had to be sleeved
When searching the internet I find this is a common issue and the dealership service manager was in my opinion wanting to take the transmission apart and hold me hostage.to get the repair job.
The guys at my former competitor gave me a professional courtesy discount or the price would have been at least double what I paid to have the servo's sleeved and rebuild the transmission. What really upsets me is that the dealership not only lied, I paid for the experience as they charged me for the computer hookup to get codes that were never passed on to me.
2008Jan 05
Explorer XLS 4.0L Hovc
- Automatic transmission
- 57,500 miles
Just out of the blue, while driving the tranny, trying to go from 2nd to 3rd gear felt like I was in neutral. If I went down a hill I could get it into a higher gear & I was fine. Then the o/d light started to flicker! I was able to drive it home (5miles). Had it towed to my local Ford Dealer. They found metal in the tranny pan. Once pulling the tranny down & inspecting it there were parts to be replaced: valve body plate, rear lanet gear & 2 bands. These could be replaced with a 1yr warranty OR put in a re-built tranny with a 3yr/75k warranty. Only having the truck 1yr & with only 57K miles on it I went with the re-built tranny. After reviewing the customer problems with this truck I wish I did my homework because I would never had bought it. Ford needs to realize that the transmissions in this year are a piece of shit & they need to step up to the plate & reimburse ALL of us. I plan on taking further legal action. I hope other owners will do the same. Broke in CT.
2007Oct 15
Explorer V8
- Automatic transmission
- 71,250 miles
My Father retired from Ford and my Brother still works there. I have tried diligently to be loyal, but this is the last straw. I have had nothing but problems with every Ford I have ever owned, and it's been a lot of them. I get a new car every 2-3 years. I have an old
import that has NEVER let me down. Dad nearly had a stroke when I bought it, but good thing I did or I'd be walking all the time! O/D light is blinking, transmission revs high for a long time before changing gears....sometimes won't change at all....afraid to pull out of anywhere unless I have a mile of clearance just in case in won't leave 1st gear. Now I find that Ford and the dealership knew this all along. I'm outraged. How can they be so deceitful, greedy and uncaring. I will never buy a Ford product of any kind again. I will only buy from Companies that have a conscience and feel obligated to be sound members of society. I'm not going to have it fixed. I am going to have it towed to the heap, sell for scrap and get a new Imported 4x4 for these harsh Ohio winters. Thank God I can afford to dump it and get something safe and dependable. I am willing to contact an attorney as well. It is ridiculous that this transmission is still available to unsuspecting consumers.
2007Jun 05
(reported on)Explorer XLT 4.0
- Automatic transmission
- 14,000 miles
FORD HEAR ME NOW WITH ALL THE HORROR STORIES IAM READING UP ON THE TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS IF NO RECALL IS SET UP ON THIS BE PREPARED TO BE HEADED TO COURT BECAUSE IAM NOT STANDING FOR ANY HEADACHES THAT SEEM TO BE HEADED MY WAY WITH THIS VEHICLE ESPECIALLY WITH AN ORIGINAL MILEAGE OF 14000 MILES AND THE WAY IVE TAKEN CARE OF THIS VEHICLE IT SHOULD LAST ME A VERY LONG TIME AND NEVER BREAK DOWN IT IS DISGUSTING TO FEEL THE PAIN AS OTHERS TO HAVE BEEN PAYING YOUR COMPANY THE LAST 5 YEARS FOR A LEMON
I JUST HOPE FOR YOUR COMPANIES SAKE THIS IS A MINOR PROBLEM IAM HAVING BECAUSE IF FROM WHAT IAM READING IS TRUE WELL WE ARE GOING TO GET BUSY BRING THE LAWYERS ON OR GET READY FOR A HUGH RECALL
2007Feb 01
Explorer XLT 4.0lV6
- Automatic transmission
- 56,000 miles
My wifes bought this used with about 56,000 miles on it. Shortly after, it didn't want to stay in overdrive. I did not think that this was a big deal because it happened when we were driving uphill. I just figured that I wasn't used to the V6 and it didn't have enough power to hold it in overdrive. A few weeks after that, the overdrive light started blinking. I took it to a transmission shop. The transmission had trouble shifting from 1st to 2nd, and would not stay in overdrive at all. The check engine light came on as well. They didn't really know what it was. The mechanic remembered reading about a chronic problem with some kind of plunger or piston that did not fit the transmission case properly due to the piston sitting in the cast aluminum. He said that he had bought the tool and the brass bushing that went in to a new hole. Apparently when the aluminum gets worn out, it looses pressure and will not shift the transmission properly. This repair would cost upwards of $2000. I put this on the back burner since we didn't have the money and he couldn't tell me that this would repair the problem for sure. A guy I worked with at the time was telling me that his girlfriends explorer was doing the same thing. When I asked what year it was, guess what. It was a 2002! Just like my wifes. Obviously Ford has a cronic problem and someone screwed up when they designed this transmission. I worked in the body shop of a local Ford dealership in the early to mid 90's when the paint was delaminating off of the Ford trucks and some of the cars. We had to repaint these trucks and Ford payed for that. Ford called it a good will gesture or something like that. I've always been a loyal Ford and GM person but defintly not a loyal Ford person any more. This is a costly repair! My 1994 Chevy truck had well over 100,000 miles on it before I had any transmission problems with it. I'm on the second transmission and have a total of 260,000 miles on the truck. It's no wonder the Asian car manufactures are kicking the domestic's ass. I've worked on a lot of vehicles in the last 16 years. I'm pushing my wife to buy a Toyota mini van. Actually, we would have been just as happy to have kept her 1999 Old sillouette van. It was older, more miles and no four wheel drive. But is was twice the vehicle. I hope that Ford steps up to the plate and takes care of this cronic problem for people. They should!!! They repainted a bunch of Farm Trucks for people. And paint doesn't get you down the road.
2008Jan 13
Explorer XLS 4.0V6
- Automatic transmission
- 91,258 miles
Ford should face up and fix this problem. Instead of the CEO making millions he should face the facts that his 2002 Ford Explorer XLS transmissions sucks and should be fixed
2007Dec 30
Explorer XLS 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 73,000 miles
the GD car was 1 month out of warranty and ford wont recall the tranny because they want to save face....... its a little too late for that!!!!!!
2007Jul 10
(reported on)Explorer 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 38,000 miles
We bought the truck brand new in August of 2002. We have really had no problems with it other than the transmission. Right after the warranty expired, approximately 38,000 miles, the O/D off light began flashing after the truck would reach 45MPH but would reset when the truck was turned off. No noticeable shift problems or too much of any other drive ability problems so I haven't proceeded to try to fix it. I did, however, take my Explorer to a Ford dealership here in Germany since that is where we've been mostly since it started, and they told me that the transmission with labor would run about 5,000 Euros (~$6000 at the time). I have decided that since it currently has about 90,000 miles now and it still works that I'll just run it into the ground, then replace the transmission myself. Hopefully you guys who have had these massive bills for replacement of the transmission will one day get together and get a class action lawsuit going. I'm sure you'll have no problem finding plenty of people with this issue.
2008Jan 04
Explorer XLS V6
- Automatic transmission
- 67,000 miles
My explorer had a problem changing from 2nd gear to 3rd. Got it fixed, and now there are more problems with the trasmission. This is outrageous. I was in acceptance of the whole situation, and then I looked at other years that the ford was made and realized that the 2002 was by far the worst as far as transmission problems go!
go to this website
http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/ivoq/
it is safercars.gov. Tell them we need a recall. NOW.
2008Jan 02
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 114,000 miles
Same issue as others report - I'll find out in a couple days if my mechanic can address, and at what cost. I've learned that, when the Solenoid B code is stored, the O/D Off light is tripped. The valve body of Solenoid B (the one controlling 1st and OD, which together constitute 3rd gear) - a known faulty part - is at the root of the problem. This can also be associated with a failed EPC valve, which is usually replaced at the same time as the solenoid. My interpretation of this service is that it will generally address the problem.
Ford should have issued a recall for this common problem long ago. However, I'm convinced that this is part of a planned obsolescence program.
2007Dec 27
Explorer LX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 94,000 miles
I�ve had just about every problem described by other�s in this section.
My Explorer has had the following problems over the past 3 years or so:
Lost 3rd gear
Randomly lurches forward or reverse when going into or out of park
Slipping feeling when shifting
High revving before shifting
And the all telling blinking OD light with Service Engine Soon
With the exception of the 3rd gear issue, my problem could never be duplicated by the Ford mechanic. That meant I not only had to pay the diagnostic fee�s out of pocket, but had to live with a piece of crap transmission for the past several years. Finally the flashing OD indicator gave me proof that there was something wrong after all. Well they found a problem this time all right, and it cost me almost $1,000 since my extended warranty expired some time back. Fast forward 2 days later and the problem is back.. When I take it back in they tell me now I need my transmission re-built to the tune of $2700. Sound familiar? When I asked how they misdiagnosed the problem a few days back they said that the mechanics recommendation was to overhaul the transmission the first time but they failed to tell me. The Service manager even told me that the Shift Pack that they replaced in the prior repair was known to cause the transmission to fail. If that�s the case why isn�t Ford stepping up to fix this issue? I can tell you they won�t because I�ve already called. Ford and the dealer are playing the pass the buck game with me and you in the middle, and their hiding behind the fact that our cars have too many miles on them. Mines less the 100K and the problems started way back around 30K. I pointed out to the Service manager at my Ford dealer that I had a long history of transmission issues with the vehicle, and that every time I had an issue I brought it to his dealership. Without blinking an eye he told me there was nothing he could do. Despite the fact that my problems started when the vehicle was under an extended factory warranty for will do nothing to help me. I took the advice of Screwford (I like that!!) from TX and filed a complaint with LawyersandSettlements.com. I advise you do the same.
The link is https://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/submit_form.html
Good luck to us all!
2008Jan 02
Explorer LX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 94,000 miles
If you have a Ford Explorer with a faulty transmission and I bet you do. Please file a complaint with safercar.gov. If enough of us complain maybe we can make Ford recall this garbage.
Use the URL below to file your report.
http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/ivoq/
2007Dec 13
Explorer XLT 4.O V6
- Automatic transmission
- 84,000 miles
my O/D light can on blinking, the transmission was jerking between 2 -3 gears. had a meter reading done at Autozone code came up po 745. nOW i'LL GOTO cARx...
2007Dec 13
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 83,800 miles
O/D light blinking. I have a 2002 Explorer. 84K...Today the trans was slipping between 1st and 2nd gear,.now, I had a problem a couple years ago of the car just stopped moving, engine on, not moving they (dealer) replaced some kind of clutch box between the engine and tranny. $900.00 later and now a problem with the tranny again. I really do not want to go back to the dealer. Oh BTW, this is my second and last ford explorer. the 1994 explorer tranny went out at 75,000 miles...aggggg. is that a code of something? rapid blinking. I'll hang up and wait for listen for your answer...:-)
2007Dec 10
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 150,000 miles
After researching the flashing overdrive light, I sit here now waiting for the call from the dealer, informing me of the fix and cost for my problem. It seems this flashing overdrive light is a common problem in Ford Explorers. Sounds like something that Ford should know about or should have known about.
2007Dec 05
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 74,000 miles
Well, my Ford is back in the shop for the second time this year!!!!! Aamco just put in a new transmission (well found out it was rebuilt) in June/July of this year. O/D light starting blinking on and off, took it back to Aamco where they ran the diagnostic. Said it needed to go to Ford because it was something electrical. Ford ran the tests on it, and said that my 2nd and 5th gears are slipping plus I needed a new solenoid. Now with parts and labor, that's another $700 and then the $300 to rent a car for a few days. So, all and all this year I'm out around $5500k on this transmission. I might add, that this car was bought brand new off the lot and I only have 71k miles on it. I am beyond upset over this. Ford really needs to stand up and back their products. I will never buy another Ford again.
2007Jul 28
(reported on)Explorer XLS 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 92,000 miles
I guess this getting old by now, my O/D light began flashing and so did everything else, after several attempts to get help, I resorted to do it myself, I took it to auto zone and codes kept coming up like a christmas tree, Im going to take the advice of so many of you and on Monday it will be traded for a GMC Envoy which is what I wanted in the first place. F***K Ford, you screwed us twice, 1999 Ford Escort, no more.
2007Dec 01
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 117,000 miles
there should really be a recall on the 2002 ford explorer xlt transmissions because they're a fucking piece of shit. We just bought one and drove it for 2 hours and the transmission went.
2007Dec 01
Explorer XLT V8
- Automatic transmission
- 79,458 miles
This is the same problem that everyone else has talked about. We bought the POS from a local dealer used with 31000 miles. The thing has always shifted strangely at times the dealers mechanics said they could never find anything wrong and we had the transmission serviced. I suspect now that they knew all along that the transmission was a piece of crap and were just hoping to get us past the warranty before it went totally. At this time we had an outside mechanic hook it and it showed that the pressure solenoid needed replace $210, man I hope that works out. Symptoms were same as everyone else O/D light flashes, then check engine light, doesn't want to shift to third gear. I also have the symptom someone described as "pebbles in a pipe when accelerating from second to third goes away when hit fourth gear. Sure sounds like Ford is well aware of this problem and hopes to get people past the warranty before the tranny goes completely.
2007Nov 27
Explorer XLS 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 124,000 miles
ME AND MY SISTER HAVE THE 2002 FORD EXPLORER HERS IS XLT AND MINE IS THE XLS.MY SISTERS EXPLORER STARTED ACTING UP 2 WEEKS AFTER SHE PURCHASED HERS AT BILLY HOWELL FORD IN CUMMING,GA.
SHE IS A FIRST TIME BUYER THEY NEVER MENTIONED ANYTHING ABOUT AN EXTENDED WARR.HER O/D LIGHT FLASHES AND THE SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT STAYS ON HER EXPLORER HAS ONLY 92000 MILES ON IT.GEARS ARE SHIFTING BAD.MY EXPLORER IS THE SAME YEAR SAME ENGINE SIZE JUST DIFFERENT TRIM.I HAVE 124000 MILES ON IT NOW I BOUGHT IT FROM GREENE FORD IN GAINESVILLE,GA IN MAY 2006.MY O/D LIGHT STARTING FLASHING ON NOVEMBER 28,2007.MY HUSBAND HAS A 2002 CHEVROLET SILVERADO IT HAS 158000 MILES ON IT V8.IT HAS BEEN TO MEXICO THREE TIMES HUALING A HEAVY LOAD TRAILER.AND PLUS HE WORKS IN LANDSCAPING AND HAULS HEAVY EQUIPMENT.AND NOT ONCE HAD ANY PROBLEMS WITH IT.STILL DRIVES LIKE IT IS NEW.WE MAINTANE OUR VEHICLES VERY GOOD.THIS IS BULLSHIT FORD YOU SUCK YOU NEED TO FIX YOUR MISTAKES.I AM STICKING WITH CHEVROLET.THEY KICKASS.
TAHOE IS NEXT ON MY LIST FOR A NEW VECHICLE SCREW FORD YOU SORRY RICH BASTARDS.GO TO HELL......
2007Aug 13
(reported on)Explorer XLT 4L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 103,000 miles
I got this SUV like 2 months ago. yesterday when I was driving in the highway the O/D light turn on. I did not know what to do so I stopped the car and turn it off. When I turn it back on the light was gone, but after a while, the same light went on again and also a light that said "service engine soon" so I went to a mechanic to see what was wrong. They told me about something called SOLENOID B. the same to all. I think it's a clear FORD defect and they need fixed that. So I guess we all learned a lesson, EVERYONE BUY JAPANESE CARS, NOT AMERICAN CARS.
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2008May 02
Explorer XLS V^
We have always purchased Ford. We have never purchased anything else. We purchased this vehicle used in April 2005. For the first year or so we had no problem and the Explorer had been maintained with oil changes and the transmission by the records that came with the vehicle. Then it started shifting hard periodically then about a year ago it became more frequent and then it once in a while the Overdrive would come on during Highway driving and the only way to get it to go off was to stop and shut off the car. Next it decided to lock up when trying to put the car in gear from Park. We had to use the manual to figure out how to bypass this until we could get it in. This only happened once so we thought it was a one time thing. Then about a month ago when driving it didn't want to shift from 1st to 2nd and or from 4th to overdrive and then the O/D light began flashing. Also the gear shift being locked up happened constantly. We took it in for the transmission to be serviced and we were told the trans. was going out. We don't have the money to replace it right now. I am very upset that is going out after being maintained. I think Ford needs to step up and do something about this. This was the vehicle I always wanted and now it is a piece of junk.
Stella C.
Cottonwood, AZ, USA
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